Nvidia Shield = buy once and be done

The Subreddit rules were written to explain what Android TV is. https://www.reddit.com/r/AndroidTV/comments/58frpc/subreddit_rules_aka_what_is_an_android_tv/ Basically, Android TV is the core of Android with a new "10 foot" interface designed specifically for TVs rather than touch screens. The knock-off Android TV boxes are just Android shoehorned into a box with HDMI and don't work as well.

Also, the Nvidia Shield isn't the Apple TV of android boxes. Rather, Apple TV is the Nvidia Shield of tvOS boxes. (i.e. the Shield is the best streaming box out there, hands down, regardless of platform. Everything else is playing catch up to Nvidia.)

From what you're saying you want, either the Shield or the Mi Box will do what you want, but I can't recommend the Shield enough.

Edit: Just saw you need Ethernet. The Shield has this. Not sure about the Mi Box, but I think you would need an adapter... maybe? My Shield also works on my AC-only wifi network, but why do you need both AC and ethernet? Android can only connect to one network interface at a time.

You'll need a USB adapter if you want to use ethernet on the Mi Box. I have one, it works fine. However, I don't even need it anymore since I upgraded my router which now have 5Ghz Wifi. Regarding speed, it works fine on my end. I'm just watching a 1080p 60fps video on YouTube right now as a test, it works fine. Looking at the advanced statistics, YouTube is actually reading a 2560x1440 60fps feed and downsize it to 1080p, the image quality is quite incredible. But the Shield is probably doing the same.

so is Android TV a specific version of android?

Google Licensed Android TV OS devices =

• does not run a tablet/touchscreen/mobile Android OS
• Chromecasting capable
• D-Pad Wireless remote
• Apps use a Wireless remote with a simple D-Pad, think Up/Down, Left/Right, OK and Back button interactions.
• Usually comes with WideVine L1, Microsoft Playready and HDCP 1.x/2.2 audio and video copy protections so paid for streaming services can be used.
• NO bloody Air Mouse, which is difficult to use anyway with Apps on a TV screen.

Mi Box is fine for 1080p Apps, it will get an Android Oreo update soon. I personally would not use it for really demanding 4K.

If you want 4K then get a NVIDIA Shield, it will be a LOT faster vs the Mi Box.

If you live in Australia or NZed, the (Nougat) Vodafone TV - Android TV OS box is pretty good as well.

I have 2 mi boxes, one for well over a year. No Ethernet but WiFi works very well. On a budget these little boxes are hard to beat. 1080 is what you can stream reliably. I’ve used Netflix, Prime Video, MLB and Kodi. All work very well. However since upgrading my tv to Sony 900E, it has Android TV built in and I been using it for 4K and HDR content. Nvidia shield is amazing device and has stood the test of time as is now even receiving updates to support Dolby Vision...truely amazing for device that has been out over 2 years. I don’t have one but a friend does.
So if you can afford it the shield is the way to go. If you’re on a budget the MiBox around $60 or less is a great deal that will not disappoint. Stay away from the cheap Chinese no name boxes. Minux is one that is good, but you will pay over $100 for extra memory and ports but no better streams than mibox. If you looking for TV I highly recommend newer Sony smart TVs with android os. The 900E is last years model and the 55” can be had 900-1000 anywhere that still has stock. I got an open box unit at Best Buy for $800 several months ago and I am really blown away with the picture and brightness.

Don't buy a Mibox. Nothing but headaches.

I have android installed on my tv so I don’t use a box. But everyone recommends nvedia sheild. I’m good with my Apple TV 4K. The android os sucks on my tv.